An “opportunistic” burglar who tried to break into over a dozen homes and vehicles in one night has been jailed.
Shaun Dixon carried out a crime spree in Northumberland which began at around 3am on August 7 when he tried to break into a property and car on Tweed Avenue in Ellington. Over the course of the next three hours, the 39-year-old attempted to enter homes and vehicles on the same housing estate including on Coquet Drive, Fontburn, Wansbeck Close and Windmill Heights.
Dixon – who has numerous previous convictions for burglary, attempted theft from a vehicle and shoplifting – stole vehicle keys from one address which were later recovered, but his offending was captured on a series of CCTV and doorbell cameras. He was later arrested and charged with six counts of attempted burglary, six counts of attempted theft from a vehicle, burglary and possession of cannabis.
Dixon, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to all offences at Newcastle Crown Court in November. He appeared back at the court on Thursday where he was jailed for four years and eight months.
Shaun Dixon captured on CCTV during an attempted burglary
(Image: Northumbria Police)
Detective Constable Jon Mullen, of Northumbria Police, said: “Dixon is a typical example of an opportunistic thief, and he has shown no sign of changing his ways. Burglary is an invasive crime which leaves victims feeling unsafe in their own homes, and I am pleased Dixon is now facing a lengthy spell behind bars.
“This conviction and sentencing would not have been possible without the assistance of the community, so this shows the value in reporting concerns to police.” Det Con Mullen added: “As ever, we would ask the public to be vigilant and take a few extra steps to help reduce the risk of them becoming a victim of crime. Please lock your doors and windows, keep your cars locked, and make sure any valuables are kept out of sight.”
Northumbria Police have dedicated burglary teams based across the North East who are tasked with reviewing every break-in, pursuing perpetrators and working with colleagues to help prevent further offences from taking place. If you’ve been a victim of crime, report it by sending a direct message on social media, using the live chat function or by visiting the ‘Report’ page of the force’s website. In an emergency, or if a crime is taking place, always ring 999.
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